Zinc Oxide Ointment Cream; Uses and Facts

Versatile Zinc Oxide Ointment

When you think of zinc oxide ointment, the first thing that comes to mind may be the lifeguard, with a generous coating of white zinc ointment coating the nose, to protect from sunburn. This is the most common use of zinc oxide ointment. In fact, many skin experts believe that this ointment, albeit not as attractive, is superior to today’s chemical sunscreens in absorbing the harmful UVAs and UVBs.
What you may not know is that this natural skin ointment is a valuable addition to your medicine cabinet, as a treatment for a variety of skin conditions and disorders. For example, zinc oxide ointment is extremely effective in treating acne, having multiple virtues specific to the relief of acne conditions. It reduces inflammation, decreases the production of the excessive oils, draws out toxins and increases healing of the skin.
Many Moms use zinc oxide ointment to prevent and treat diaper rash. This handy ointment is also good for treating minor cuts, burns and abrasions. Dandruff and dermatitis also respond well to the use of zinc oxide. It can also be used to treat athlete’s foot, as well as poison oak, ivy and sumac rashes, where it helps to suppress both the miserable symptoms of itching and inflammation.
While it may seem obvious, it’s important to note that this ointment is for external use only and should never be ingested by mouth. If you have young children in your home, or children that visit, be sure you keep this tube of ointment out of the reach of curious kids. To prevent accidental ingestion, be sure to wash your hands well after use.
Here’s how to apply zinc oxide ointment. Slather it generously over the skin. Leave it  uncovered. Don’t use a bandage, unless your physician directs you to do so. Before using zinc oxide ointment on babies and children, consult your pediatrician. While interactions with other prescribed drugs are rare, they may occur. If you have a skin lotion or other topical ointment already on the affected site, it’s best to clean the area before applying the zinc ointment.
Here are some general guidelines on situations and conditions that call for consultation with your doctor or pharmacist before using zinc skin ointment. If you’re planning to conceive, are pregnant or are breastfeeding, seek professional advice before use. Check for contraindications or possible interactions If you take OTCs, prescription medications, vitamins or herbal supplements. If you suffer from allergies, whether they are to foods or medicines, check it out with your pharmacist.
Perhaps one reason that zinc oxide ointment is so effective is that there are hundreds of enzymes that depend on this trace mineral in order to function properly. Zinc is found in just about every cell of the body. It also contains powerful antioxidant properties and is an important factor in your immune system response. Our skin is after all, the largest organ in our bodies, and absorbs the nutrients of zinc oxide ointment directly through the skin.
With proper use, you can see that zinc oxide ointment is an excellent remedy to have on hand in your medicine cabinet.